Alaska river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in Alaska with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
Alaska paddle map
See which Alaska runs are in right now
Every run and gauge on one live map:
- Runnable now — too low, in range or too high
- Gauges — every river vs its normal flow
- Rain coming — 24/48/72-hr forecast, press play
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Alaska river runs today
Paddling in Alaska at a glance.
Another must-visit spot is the Six Mile Creek near Hope, which boasts some of the most intense Class IV and V rapids in the state. With steep drops, tight chutes, and powerful hydraulics, this river is not for the faint of heart. The optimal time to paddle Six Mile Creek is in the early summer when the snowmelt creates high water levels ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 cubic feet per second. Remember to always wear a helmet and a PFD, as well as to paddle with a skilled guide if you're not an experienced kayaker. Alaska's whitewater rivers offer a thrilling adventure for those seeking an adrenaline rush, but safety should always be the top priority.
Alaska paddle report
About Alaska river runs
What does whitewater class mean?
The international whitewater scale (Class I–VI) rates a river's difficulty. I is moving water with riffles. II is straightforward rapids with clear channels. III requires complex maneuvers in fast water. IV is intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring decisive boat handling. V is extremely long, obstructed, or violent rapids with significant hazard. VI is considered impossible to run.
Where does the Alaska streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each Alaska paddle run is keyed to a specific gauge that paddlers and outfitters have agreed represents flow on that section. Gauges report every 15 minutes; we re-pull throughout the day.
What's a runnable level?
Run-specific. A creek that's classic at 200 cfs might be too low at 100 and dangerously flooded at 1,000. Always cross-reference with a guidebook or a Alaska paddling club for the run's accepted gauge ranges before launching.
Can I get an alert when a run hits prime flow?
Yes. Save any paddle run as a favorite in the Snoflo iOS app, set a flow window (e.g. "alert me between 800 and 1,500 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses into range. Free with a Snoflo account.
Is this a substitute for local guidebooks and trip leaders?
No. Snoflo is informational. Always carry appropriate skills, gear, and a sober assessment of the day's flow. For high-consequence runs (Class IV+), paddle with people who know the run and never solo. American Whitewater is the authoritative source for U.S. river information.